provided to The Santiva Chronicle
Businesses are feeling the love from residents and visitors alike who are coming out to support Love Sanibel Back this summer.
LSB is an initiative started by St. Michael’s Church to spread love to island businesses during the slower summer months and provide opportunities for the community to gather and connect. The week of June 22-28, the focus was on Jerry’s Plaza and the Bank of the Island across the street.
Doreen Bolhuis, a member of the St. Michael’s Community Engagement Team and host for the feature day on June 25, commented, “Love Sanibel Back at Jerry’s Plaza was enthusiastically embraced by visitors and islanders alike. I informed many people about the initiative, and they were happy to participate and have a tangible way to help our island recover.”
“Visitors are eager to help! Business owners/managers were both grateful and encouraged by the community support. Together we are Sanibel Strong,” Bolhuis said.
Rachel Pierce, owner of three island businesses, shared, “The Love Sanibel Back events are what this island is all about. All of us are showing up for each other. Thank you to all involved, it really makes a difference.”
Jerry’s Foods and Café, Nanny’s of Sanibel, Pierce’s Paw Paradise, and Bank of the Islands are participating in the week, offering specials and treats for those who stop in.
Businesses that have online stores on their websites are also reporting that people not currently on the island are participating in Love Sanibel Back by making purchases of items and gift cards.
The online marketplace that lists all the participating stores that offer an online option can be found by clicking here, and a full schedule with all the featured days and offerings can be accessed online here.